Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try!

If you’re looking for a fun and flavorful twist on taco night, you absolutely must try these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try! This dish has quickly become a favorite in my home. The crispy shrimp paired with the zesty bang bang sauce creates a delightful crunch and explosion of flavors that everyone loves. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual family gathering, these tacos are sure to impress!

These tacos are not just delicious; they’re also easy to prepare. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have an incredible meal ready in no time. Trust me—once you serve these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, they will become a go-to recipe for many occasions!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: With just 45 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the crispy shrimp and fun toppings, making it perfect for family dinners.
• Versatile toppings: You can customize your tacos with various fresh toppings for everyone’s taste.
• Make-ahead potential: Prepare the shrimp ahead of time and fry them just before serving for an easy meal prep option.
• Deliciously spicy: The bang bang sauce adds a kick that elevates these tacos beyond the ordinary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For these tasty Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in creating that delicious flavor and satisfying crunch. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)

For Assembly

• 8 small flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Lime wedges, for serving

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! If you’re feeling adventurous or want to cater to different tastes, here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a different protein option.
• Add more spice: Increase the amount of sriracha in the sauce if you love heat!
• Go gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use corn tortillas.
• Fresh herbs addition: Sprinkle fresh cilantro or parsley on top for an extra burst of flavor.

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try!

Step 1: Soak the Shrimp

Start by soaking your shrimp in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it tenderizes the shrimp while infusing them with flavor. Plus, who doesn’t love super juicy shrimp?

Step 2: Prepare the Flour Mixture

In another bowl, mix together your flour with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This seasoning blend is what will give your shrimp that irresistible flavor!

Step 3: Dredge the Shrimp

After soaking, remove each shrimp from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Coat each one in your seasoned flour mixture—this creates a lovely crispy outer layer once fried.

Step 4: Coat with Panko

Next, dip each floured shrimp back into the buttermilk before rolling them in panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure they stick well; this will add that delightful crunch we all adore.

Step 5: Frying Time!

Heat about an inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot (you can test by dropping a breadcrumb in; it should sizzle), carefully add your shrimp in batches. Fry them until they’re golden brown—about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels to keep them crispy.

Step 6: Make the Sauce

While your shrimp are frying, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in a small bowl. This sauce is where all that bang comes from! Taste it and adjust if necessary—after all, every palate is different!

Step 7: Assemble Your Tacos

Now comes the fun part! Grab your tortillas and lay down a generous handful of shredded cabbage on each one. Top with those beautifully fried shrimp and drizzle over your bang bang sauce. Add some avocado slices for creaminess.

Step 8: Serve It Up!

Finally, serve your tacos with lime wedges on the side so everyone can squeeze fresh juice over their meal. Enjoy every crispy bite of these delightful Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos!

Now that you have this recipe close at hand, I can’t wait for you to try it out! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try!

Making Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos is a fun and rewarding experience, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your dish to the next level!

• Choose Fresh Shrimp: Opt for fresh shrimp if possible; they offer the best flavor and texture. Frozen shrimp can work too, but be sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
• Don’t Skip the Buttermilk: Marinating the shrimp in buttermilk not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the shrimp, making them juicier and more delicious.
• Double Dredge for Extra Crispy: For an extra crispy coating, dip the shrimp in flour, then back into the buttermilk, and finish with panko breadcrumbs. This layering creates a delightful crunch that everyone loves!
• Heat the Oil Correctly: Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying. If it’s too cool, the shrimp will absorb more oil and become greasy instead of crispy. You can test this by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
• Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or spiciness of your bang bang sauce by adding more or less sriracha or sweet chili sauce. Tailoring it to your taste will make each bite memorable!

How to Serve Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos: A Tasty Recipe You Must Try!

Presenting your Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos beautifully can enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas to help you serve them in style!

Garnishes

• Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy heat, fresh jalapeños add a spicy kick and vibrant color.
• Radish Slices: Thinly sliced radishes provide a crunchy texture and a peppery taste that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: A colorful salad made with corn, lime juice, cilantro, and queso fresco (or a non-dairy alternative), providing creamy goodness alongside your tacos.
• Black Bean Salsa: This hearty salsa combines black beans, tomatoes, onions, and spices for a protein-packed side that pairs perfectly with tacos.
• Guacamole: The creamy texture of guacamole brings richness to the meal. Pair it with tortilla chips for an appetizer or enjoy it as a topping on your tacos.
• Chips and Salsa: A classic choice! Serve crisp tortilla chips with fresh tomato salsa for a tasty starter that gets everyone excited for taco night.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re all set to impress your family or guests with delightful Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos! Enjoy every bite of this delicious meal together!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare components in advance, making it easy to whip up a quick dinner during busy weekdays.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover fried shrimp in an airtight container.
• Store the shrimp in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Keep the bang bang sauce in a separate container to preserve its freshness.
• Store tortillas, shredded cabbage, and avocado separately to maintain their texture.

Freezing

• Allow fried shrimp to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen shrimp to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Note: It’s best to freeze the shrimp without the toppings to ensure quality.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat shrimp in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes until crispy.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
• Avoid microwaving as it can make the shrimp soggy.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common inquiries about Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos that might help you out.

Can I use frozen shrimp for Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before soaking in buttermilk. This will help achieve that delicious crispy texture.

What is the best way to serve Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

The best way is to fill soft tortillas with a base of shredded cabbage, top with crispy fried shrimp, drizzle with bang bang sauce, and add fresh avocado slices. Don’t forget the lime wedges!

How spicy are these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. The sriracha provides heat, so feel free to add less or more according to your taste!

Can I make the bang bang sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the bang bang sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes assembling your tacos super quick!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos as much as I do! They’re not just tasty; they’re an experience filled with crunch and flavor that’ll surely impress family and friends. So gather your ingredients and dive into this delightful recipe. Happy cooking!